Ask the expert: What does a new camper need?

Now, with most people trying to save money, sleeping under the stars is more popular than ever.

Camping information is the No. 1 request of travelers visiting the Keystone State, according to the Pennsylvania Tourism office in Harrisburg.

"Tent camping can be a great way for first-time campers to experience the outdoors and not have to spend a lot of money," said Tim Lloyd, an experienced tent camper and salesman at Dunkelberger's Sports Outfitter in Stroudsburg.

He suggested to first camp close to home and just for a weekend.

"See how it goes," he said. "You want to start out with just the basics."

One of the biggest mistakes new campers make, Lloyd said, is "they spend way too much on stuff they don't need and won't use."

Remember that everything you pack has to be carried into the campsite and back out when you leave, he said.

Lloyd recommends an all-season tent.

"A basic, all-season tent will be fine," he said. "If four people are camping, a three- to six-man tent works fine."

You can buy a basic design that includes the poles and stakes for around $75.

Next, you need something to sleep on and something to put underneath to keep the dampness out of your sleeping bag. Sleep mats will run anywhere from $30 to 150.

"Go for the less expensive mat until you see if you are going to enjoy camping," he said.

Although $30 may seem like a lot of money, Lloyd said, "it is well worth the money, because it will keep the sleeping bag dry."

The sleeping bag, which is essential when tent camping, will run you $30 and up, depending on the material.

"Summer bags will keep you comfortable at temperatures as low as around 40 degrees," Lloyd said.

Spring and fall bags will keep you warm if the temperature drops down to 15 degrees, and winter bags can handle the coldest temperature of 15 degrees and below.

Lloyd recommend a Coleman five-day, 62-quart cooler or one similar. The Coleman retails for $60.

If packed correctly with ice and the cooler doesn't sit in direct sunlight, perishables will keep safely for five days, Lloyd said.

"There are a few other things you need to bring along," he said.

Always bring a lantern. Lloyd recommended an LED lantern.

You can buy one that uses batteries or propane, but he advises using a propane-powered lantern because "if you are cooking with propane and using a propane lantern, you can bring a 20-pound tank of propane instead of buying all the smaller tanks for just the stove," he said.

For the bulb, a 150-watt bulb is best.

He also suggests using individual head lamps, which leaves the hands free.

Keeping everyone safe and healthy is a priority for a positive and fun camping experience, he said

"So don't forget to bring matches, a lighter, a first-aid kit, hiking map and a compass — with at least one person that knows how to use it correctly," Lloyd said.

Ask the Expert is published on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Readers can send their questions or ideas to aleap@poconorecord.com.